UPDATE: Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum just participated in his first 5-on-5 scrimmage since tearing his right Achilles in May 2022, but he cautioned that a return to the court is not imminent. Tatum joined his team’s G League affiliate in Maine for practice on Tuesday, stating he was “feeling good” after the session.
Speaking to reporters, Tatum emphasized that while he is progressing in his rehabilitation, this latest step does not guarantee his immediate comeback: “Today is 39 weeks since the Achilles tear, so it’s been a long journey… [this was] the next step,” he explained. “Doesn’t mean that I’m coming back or I’m not. We’re just following the plan.” The Celtics are currently third in the Eastern Conference, thriving despite Tatum’s absence.
Since suffering the injury during the Eastern Conference semifinals against the New York Knicks, Tatum’s recovery has been closely monitored. Injuries of this nature typically require up to a full year for recovery. When asked about his proximity to returning to the Celtics lineup, Tatum admitted uncertainty: “I just feel a little bit better every day and I just try and focus on that.”
Celtics president Brad Stevens reiterated the importance of Tatum’s complete recovery, stating: “It’s best to wait until he is 110% healthy and fully cleared before he returns. That’s it. That’s the objective, and that’s what we’re going to stick with.”
Despite Tatum’s absence, the Celtics have shown resilience, led by All-Star Jaylen Brown. Tatum expressed awareness of the team’s current success and potential concerns about his reintroduction impacting team chemistry. “Obviously, I know what I bring to the table… but I’m also aware these guys have been playing extremely well,” he noted. “It was just kind of being vulnerable, I guess, for a moment.”
Fans are eagerly awaiting further updates as Tatum continues his rehabilitation journey. The Celtics’ next steps will depend on Tatum’s ongoing progress and the team’s performance in the coming weeks.